Newcastle and Gateshead's European Capital of Culture bid received a double boost today.

Newcastle has been chosen as the venue for a prestige international heritage conference which will showcase the area's attractions.

And a top heritage expert has praised Newcastle's Grainger Town regeneration scheme.

Sir Neil Cossons, chairman of English Heritage, said the project to restore the city's historic heart, is an example to others.

His words were welcomed today by leaders of the Newcastle Gateshead Initiative which is spearheading the Capital of Culture bid.

Thirteen cities are rivals to become European Capital of Culture in 2008. A short list will be drawn up in September and Prime Minister Tony Blair will make the decision early next year.

The conference, Investing in Heritage, will feature landmark regeneration projects from across the world and speakers include Ministers from the UK and the European Parliament.

The conference in July at the Old Assembly Rooms and Centre for Life is expected to attract 250 delegates. One aim is to establish a network of historic cities to promote best practice. Delegates will be shown the &#xA3;120 million Grainger Town project, a key part of the Capital of Culture bid.

Sir Neil, who will speak at the conference, said: "What has been achieved in Grainger Town shows the vital role heritage can play in city centre regeneration."

Newcastle City Council leader, Coun Tony Flynn, said: "This conference will seek to explore and develop the complex relationships between our valuable heritage and the way it can play an important and valuable role in the future of our cities."

By the time it is complete in March, 2003, the Grainger Town project will have helped to create 2,000 jobs, assisted 200 businesses and funded more than 500 new flats.